Botox® Cosmetic

What is Botox®?

Botox® Cosmetic is the most studied brand of botulinum toxins and has been helping patients worldwide for more than 15 years. It is a purified protein which temporarily reduces the activity of muscles. Physicians are generally more experienced in administering these injections and can help you decide if Botox® is right for you.

After the doctor determines the best injection sites for you, those areas will then be numbed with a cold pack. A few drops of Botox® are injected with a fine needle into the muscle, blocking the nerve impulses that cause contractions. As stimulation to the muscle weakens, the lines gradually soften, giving you a more refreshed, relaxed, and natural looking appearance. The procedure is quick and simple, and clients often have it done on their lunch hour, usually taking between 10 – 20 minutes. There is no recovery time needed.

How long does Botox® last?

Botox® takes effect in three to four days, while maximum results are achieved in 7-10 days. Gradually over three to six months, the Botox® effect will fade, and the muscle action will return. When frown lines begin to reappear, a simple repeat treatment is all that is necessary to maintain the desired result.

Are there any reactions to the treatment?

Reactions to Botox® in cosmetic use are related to the local injection of the solution. There may be a slight discomfort from the needle entering the skin, and a small chance of a slight bruise at the injection site or possibly a slight short term headache. Approximately 1-2% of clients may develop a slight lowering of the eyelid. There have been no permanent side effects from the use of Botox®. It may not be administered during pregnancy or lactation, and your physician should be told which medications you are taking before receiving Botox® injections.

Will I have a natural look?

Yes. If you are treated by an experienced doctor who is able to determine the right dose and injection technique for you, the treatment should not radically change your facial appearance. The treatment only relaxes the muscle at the injection site, so the other elements of facial expression remain active. It also has no effect on sensory nerves, so you will have normal feeling in the treated areas.

What is the overall opinion of Botox® therapy?

Botox® therapy represents a safe, remarkably successful, and now widely used approach to treating wrinkles of the forehead, frown lines, and crows feet without surgery and without scars. The client response is positive as these dynamic lines can be resolved and, in many cases, eliminated for months at a time. Botox® therapy has revolutionized many aspects of cosmetic procedures and has quickly become the first line of treatment for wrinkles.

Is it expensive?

When considering your facial aesthetic options, Botox® is quite affordable. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery's 2003 survey, Botox® is one of the least expensive facial aesthetic procedures in North America. Like other appearance-related investments, such as hair coloring and cuts, teeth whitening, and chemical peels, the cost must be weighed relative to your expectations. During your complimentary consultation, Dr Setterfield would be happy to answer any other questions you may have.